How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Refrigerators are available in a vast array of shapes and sizes. They can fit into tight spaces including dorms.
Certain models can be used with smart devices. They allow you to monitor your fridge remotely and help you fix any issues that might arise. You can also make use of voice commands to control them.
Noise
Fridges can make many different sounds while operating, some of which are more prominent than others. If you hear any of the noises below, determine its origin and check for a fix before calling a repair company for your fridge.
Rattling
buy fridge uk could rattle if there is not enough space between it and the cabinet or wall or if it's sitting at an unlevel angle. It's easy to solve - all you have to do is ensure there's at least a few inches of space between the sides and then adjust the legs of the fridge or leveling screws to lower or raise it accordingly.
Hissing
The compressor may hiss when cooling your food. This is a normal sound that is caused by the refrigerant or compressor fluid moving through the system. If you're concerned, note how often the compressor runs and call an emergency repair service for your fridge when it happens more frequently than usual.
Squeaking
Refrigerators can sound raucous when the fan or coils are filthy. If you notice your fridge making noises, clean the coils or fan with a vacuum cleaner using a brush attachment or water and a rag, or just use dish soap and water. This should be done at least twice a year or more frequently in the case of older refrigerators or is heavily used.
Clicking
A clicking sound may also be heard from a fridge. This is usually caused by frozen air around the freezer fan. Defrosting by hand can fix the issue, but it will return unless a professional is called in.
If you hear clicking, turn the refrigerator back on. If you have an ice maker attached, this sound can be caused by it. Make sure you switch it off when you aren't using ice regularly.
The hum of your refrigerator is normal, and it can be a bit louder at certain times of the day, or after large stockings or intensive freezing functions. The refrigerator is working harder to keep your food cool, and therefore it has to work faster. This isn't an indication of a problem.
Dust
Dust in the house is a magnet for dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms as well as the traces of everyday household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can cause allergic reactions and inhalation, and they are a perfect substrate for microbes, including those that can cause infection when they come into direct contact with an open cut.
It's impossible to clean a fridge completely but regular cleaning can reduce the accumulation of dust and help keep the temperature consistent. A dirty fridge also wastes energy because it gets overheated and performs inefficiently. If your fridge is making more noise than usual, or if you think it's working too hard it could be time to have it checked out.
Dust does not drift into the air from outside as is commonly thought. It is made up of resuspended dirt from the house, which can be contaminated by lead or other toxicants. It also contains mold, pollen and car exhaust. It also contains a number of legacy pollutants, including DDT, which was banned over 50 years ago.
Certain compounds, such as flame retardants like decabromodiphenyl ether are able to volatilize and enter the air, however the majority of chemicals found in house dust are transferred directly from one thing to another for example, by throwing fibers and tiny bits of plastic off electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.
A soiled refrigerator can affect your health, as well as contaminating food. It could harbor allergens, like pet dander and the droppings of cockroaches, which can trigger asthma and allergies for many people. It also can contain bacterial spores, such as staphylococcus aureus, which can cause infections if they make their way into a wound.
Researchers have discovered that contaminated dust can be linked to a broad range of health problems that include cancer, cardiovascular disease, leukemia and inflammatory bowel disease. Recent research revealed that dust in the homes of children who had leukemia had higher levels PCBs, PBDEs, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators function properly, the coils on the back and front of the appliance should dissipate the heat produced by the compressor. But when these radiator-like parts are covered in dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor works overtime trying to cool the fridge, and will eventually wear down the unit. This is why it's crucial to clean the coils regularly.
If you're looking to tackle the task yourself It is recommended that you unplug the refrigerator from its outlet and switch off the power source prior to starting. This will lower the chance that you or your family may be electrocuted while working on the appliance. It is also recommended to wear a mask if you are sensitive to dust. You will then need to find the coils. They are usually located in the back of the refrigerator, or in some instances, at the front and base. If you're unsure of where to locate them go through your fridge's owner manual or contact the manufacturer for more details.
Once you've located the coils, you will need to remove the access panel if you have one. You can then alternate between vacuuming the coils using an hose attachment that is narrow and rubbing them with a condenser coil cleaning brush. Be cautious not to risk damaging or bending the coils. Replace the kick panel, or move the refrigerator to its place, and plug it in.
You can hire an expert if you're comfortable doing it yourself. But it's much cheaper and less of a hassle to simply keep up with the routine of cleaning to avoid the issue from arising in the first place.
Maintenance
Refrigerators are tough-working appliances that run all day and night to cool your food. They need regular maintenance to enable them to do their job effectively. This simple preventive maintenance will keep them running efficiently for many years to come.
A simple task is to clean the door seals. The gaskets can become filled with jelly and other food items that stick and allow air to escape through tiny holes. Every few months, wipe them down with a baking soda solution and warm water using the toothbrush or sponge.
Another spot to check for issues is the fan in the back of the fridge. It could be noisy if it's been clogged with paper, insulation or even mice. Unplug the fridge, take out all shelves and then take out any parts that are removable. Vacuum cleaners with connections for hoses are a great option to clean the coils and the area around them. Make sure you switch off the fridge after you have finished.
It is recommended to consult your owner's manual for details on where to find the fan and coils and what kind of cleaning tools you might need. It's recommended to read through the warranty carefully to ensure you understand what is and isn't covered.